Indonesia, South Africa Deepen Partnership to Drive Tourism Growth

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Indonesia and South Africa, on February 10, officially entered a new chapter of diplomatic and economic synergy. The two nations recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to foster a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable tourism sector.

The agreement was signed in Jakarta by Indonesian Minister of Tourism Widiyanti Putri Wardhana and her South African counterpart, Patricia de Lille, during the latter’s official visit to Southeast Asia. This partnership breathes new life into a 2015 bilateral agreement that has long served as the bedrock for relations between the two countries.

Widiyanti emphasised that the pact is about more than just industry growth: “This MoU reflects a shared commitment to strengthening tourism cooperation as a driver for economic growth, cultural exchange, and deepened mutual understanding between the people of our two nations,” she said.

The collaboration carries significant historical weight, echoing the principles of the 1955 Asian-African Conference held in Bandung. By prioritising mutual respect and solidarity, this modern alliance acts as a tangible extension of the Global South’s shared legacy.

A primary focus of the MoU is improving travel logistics. Martini Mohamad Paham, deputy for tourism resources and institutions, confirmed that the ministry is working with InJourney (the state-owned aviation and tourism holding company) to enhance connectivity.

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Visa policies are also at the forefront of the discussion. While South Africa has already streamlined its process, Indonesia is still working toward a total waiver for South African citizens.

“The vice president stated that Indonesia would provide visa-free entry, which is currently still in process; at present, it remains Visa on Arrival (VoA),” Martini noted.

Conversely, Minister de Lille announced that South Africa has transitioned to a digital-first approach. Indonesian citizens can now apply for visas online, with processing times under 24 hours.

The partnership extends into the classroom and the environment. Indonesia plans to adopt South African strategies for national park management and community-led conservation. Meanwhile, six Indonesian tourism polytechnics will engage in exchange programmes to share expertise.

“We will learn from one another regarding hospitality and tourism development, as well as MICE,” Martini said.

Furthermore, South Africa is making a concerted effort to attract Muslim travellers by developing its halal tourism infrastructure in collaboration with the Muslim Judicial Council.

The two nations are eyeing significant growth in visitor numbers. In 2025, approximately 30,000 South Africans visited Indonesia, while 3,000 Indonesians travelled to South Africa. To bridge this gap, joint marketing campaigns, digital promotions, and “familiarisation trips” for travel agents are underway.

Widiyanti remains optimistic about the long-term impact of the agreement: “Both countries believe that the signing of this MoU will strengthen bilateral tourism cooperation while opening opportunities for a more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient sector,” Widiyanti added.

Minister de Lille echoed this sentiment, highlighting the deep-rooted friendship between the two states:

“The signing of this memorandum of understanding will further deepen the relationship between our two countries,” she said.

Welcoming future Indonesian visitors, she concluded, “As part of this collaboration, we aim to increase tourist numbers in both countries. Indonesians will always receive a warm welcome in South Africa,” de Lille said.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Answers

1. What is the primary purpose of the Indonesia-South Africa MoU? 

The MoU aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the tourism sector, with a focus on economic growth, cultural exchange, improved accessibility, and sustainable industry practices.

2. How has the visa process changed for Indonesians visiting South Africa? 

South Africa has implemented a digital visa system, enabling Indonesian citizens to apply online with a guaranteed processing time of under 24 hours.

3. Is there a visa-free policy for South Africans entering Indonesia? 

Not yet. The Indonesian government has committed to visa-free entry, but the policy is still being finalised. Currently, South African visitors must use a Visa on Arrival (VoA).

4. What is the “Bandung Spirit” mentioned in the article? 

It refers to the 1955 Asian-African Conference held in Bandung, Indonesia, which promoted South-South cooperation, mutual respect, and decolonisation. We see this new tourism pact as a modern continuation of that solidarity.

5. How does South Africa cater to Muslim travellers from Indonesia? 

South Africa is actively developing its halal tourism sector by working with the Muslim Judicial Council to ensure that facilities, food, and safety standards meet the needs of Muslim visitors.